‘Wheelyboat’ to enter service in spring

Rye Harbour Sailability (RHS) is buying a £54,000 powered ‘Wheelyboat’ to allow wheelchair users to access the craft safely.

The new boat — the fourth in the sailing charity’s fleet — enters service in May next year after an astonishing £60,000 was raised in only six months from donations and funding bodies.

“For the first time, wheelchair users will be able to experience — and even steer — a powerboat, as well as continue enjoying the freedom of being on the water with us”, said RHS president Caroline Wylson. RHS vice-chair Sheila Davison has been instrumental in raising the formidable funding, she said.

There are currently two adapted sailing boats, the lugger Sea Gem and the dinghy Kerry, plus a rigid inflatable safety boat named Sea Rush that escorts every outing. Sailors include people with autism, mild mobility issues, cerebral palsy, learning difficulties, dementia and mental health issues.

At the same time, the charity has renewed its plea for more volunteers to assist with administration, communications and sailing outings for disabled people.

Caroline says a communications coordinator and volunteers to act as membership secretary and / or RHS 100 Club (fundraising) secretary are urgently needed, as well as more people to help with sailing, catering and general administration assistance.

Between April and October each year, the charity organises two sailing outings a month at Rye Harbour for people with additional support needs. Each boat usually accommodates a helmsperson, a crew member, two carers and two sailors. At least 16 volunteers of various types are typically needed for each sailing session.

Sailing days are held at Rye Harbour Sailing Club where food and refreshments are served. Social events, often at The Hub on Rye Hill, take place in the off-season.

From April 2026, Sailability will work with the Mason Foundation, a charity that assists neurodiverse people and those with support needs enter the workforce. The ‘Nautical Mile Propel Project’ aims to help 12 young people with learning difficulties experience sailing with RHS, while also helping them with employment skills. Sailing is very much seen as a way of improving personal confidence, teamwork and communication. Funding is currently being sought for this programme.

Launched in 2017, the RHS charity requires at least £12,000 a year to keep going. Rother District Council’s community grants scheme and private donors have generously assisted with finance for equipment in the past.

Caroline points out that as well as helping other people, the charity also offers the chance for sailors and volunteers to socialise, have fun and meet other members of the local community.

A quiz night is being held at The Hub on Rye Hill on November 28 (doors open 6pm, food served at 6.30) to raise funds for Sailability. Tickets cost £10 a head. Teams of six are invited, although individuals can also participate as part of informal teams. First prize will be six bottles of Chapel Down wine.

To book, contact The Hub on 01797 331800 or email admin@hubonryehill.org.uk

Image Credits: Rye Harbour Sailability .